Lesson 1: Python Review & OOP Preview

Python Fundamentals Recap

Before diving into OOP, confirm you're comfortable with these Python building blocks:

• Variables and data types: int, float, str, bool, list, dict, tuple, set
• Control flow: if/elif/else, for loops, while loops, break, continue
• Functions: def, parameters, return values, default args, *args, **kwargs
• Built-in data structures: list comprehensions, dict methods, slicing

What is Object-Oriented Programming?

OOP is a programming paradigm that organizes code around objects — self-contained bundles of data (attributes) and behavior (methods). Instead of writing a collection of functions, you model the real world as interacting objects.

A class is the blueprint (like an architectural plan). An object is an instance built from that blueprint (like the actual house). You can create thousands of objects from one class, each with its own state.

The Four Pillars of OOP

• Encapsulation: Bundling data and methods together; hiding internal details
• Inheritance: A new class can extend an existing class, inheriting its behavior
• Polymorphism: Different classes can implement the same interface differently
• Abstraction: Exposing only what is necessary; hiding complexity behind clean APIs